44 Feared Dead as Massive Fire Engulfs 7 High-Rise Buildings in Hong Kong
In one of Hong Kong’s deadliest tragedies in decades, a massive fire tore through a cluster of high-rise residential buildings on Wednesday, leaving at least 44 people dead and 15 others injured, officials confirmed on Thursday.
Authorities said nine victims died at the scene, while four more succumbed to injuries in hospital. Hundreds of residents are still unaccounted for as rescue operations continue in the smoke-filled towers.
The fire erupted in an eight-building complex with nearly 2,000 apartment units in Wang Fuk Court, Tai Po — a densely populated district packed with tall residential blocks. Flames quickly spread across bamboo scaffolding surrounding several buildings, which were undergoing major maintenance work.
The blaze, which continued smoldering through the night, has shaken the city, marking Hong Kong’s worst fire disaster in decades.
Police announced early Thursday that three men have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter in connection with the incident. Authorities have not yet released details regarding their alleged involvement.
Firefighters battled the inferno for hours, navigating smoke-choked stairwells and hazardous scaffolding as desperate residents awaited rescue at windows and rooftops.
As evacuation and search efforts continue, officials warn that the death toll may
further, with numerous residents still missing.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
(JKNEWS NATION)
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